January 2026

Most of the state is snow covered and will likely remain so for the next few weeks, if not the next few months. Review this Winter Storm Safety Brief to help your staff maintain a high level of safety and hazard awareness. With town meeting preparations underway, visit our Town Meeting webpage or attend a town meeting related training if you need a refresher. Our advocacy team returned to the State House for what's sure to be an interesting session. Read the latest Weekly Legislative Report and join the bi-weekly Advocacy Chats to stay up to date.

News

Resources

Claims

Careers

Events

Legal Notes

Can a Local Public Body Meet Remotely Due to a Storm?

All local public bodies, whether advisory or not, can meet remotely (without designating a physical meeting location) if they can’t meet at their regular meeting place due to either a declared state of emergency or a local incident. However, there are legal rules to comply with.

Tips and Info for Avoiding Disruptions When Hosting Online Meetings

This new guide gives an overview of security features available in the most common online meeting software, with tips on why and how to use them, a table comparing different products, and links to learn more. The main message: Don't rely on free versions of meeting software. Paying even a small amount can prevent many disruptions and provide much better security.

Risk Management

PACIF Grants: Members' Perspectives

Hear directly from grant recipients about how they're using the funds, what projects were most worthwhile, and what they plan to apply for in the future. Then click through to learn how you can apply for a 2026 PACIF Grant or a John Lawe Scholarship.

Meet PACIF's Newest Claims Representative

Joann Gosselin joined VLCT as a Property and Casualty Senior Claims Representative in August 2025. She quickly launched herself into the job and has been working with members since then. Hear more from Joann about her experience and what excites her about working for VLCT.

EyeMed Vision Insurance: Special Offers

Don't pay more than you have to for your glasses or contacts. EyeMed Vision Care® vision wellness plans provide members with special discounts on Glasses.com, through Pearle Vision, and on LASIK at specific locations. Additional discounts are available at Sunglass Hut and ContactsDirect.

Learn with VLCT in 2026. VLCT offers a variety of trainings in several formats to make learning convenient and accessible to you. Most training in 2026 remains free thanks to grants from PACIF and the USDA. Select trainings have a fee to help cover costs that aren’t eligible for grant funding.

See Our 2026 Training Lineup

Featured Resources & Opportunities

Buyer Prepare: A Roadmap for Municipalities Considering Ownership of Former Community Buildings

Learn about what matters most as you consider purchasing former community buildings such as schools, churches, and other anchor or landmark properties that have been focal points of community identity and culture. This list of 10 considerations and guiding questions can help you evaluate potential ownership.

The ARPA Closeout Process Has Started (for some): Action Required

The U.S. Treasury has begun the early closeout process for ARPA recipients. Only recipients specifically invited by email may begin. Look for an email from "SLFRF@treasury.gov" with the subject line "*ACTION REQUIRED* Closeout Instructions for the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds".

ICYMI: Latest News

John Law Scholarships Open

These awards reimburse members for hosting or attending safety and risk management training.

Governing All with Skill

Learn to communicate effectively with residents and meet the legal requirements of governing.

Legislative Session Kicks Off!

Read our first legislative report of the session and sign up to attend the first regular Advocacy Chat.

Vermont Town Careers

Help us promote your jobs! Submit your job listings and receive free advertising.

Now's the Time: Submit Your Application

VLCT's Municipal Service Scholarship is accepting applications through VSAC. Apply today!

Try Muni-Pal: VLCT's New AI Chatbot

Have a question - ask Muni-Pal. It's still learning so make sure to click the link to read more.

Understanding Technical Assistance at NLC

Technical assistance from NLC takes many forms, including subject matter expertise, peer learning, coaching, data, tools, and resources. Learn how to take advantage of this practical support.

Member Showcase: Selectboard Members Share Challenges and Opportunities

Since 2024 VLCT has held regional selectboard meet-ups in partnership with regional planning commissions. These casual meetings give board members time to make connections, share challenges, and learn from each other. Read this summary of the main topics brought up in 2025.

Live Well, Work Well

January is the perfect time to try new ways to take good care of yourself. Clearing clutter from your physical space, taking a break from alcohol use, or tending to very dry skin are different – yet effective – ways to set yourself up for a healthier, more focused, and more successful year.

Store

On Demand: Legal Roles and Responsibilities of Development Review Boards and Zoning Boards of Authority

This new training from VLCT's Municipal Assistance Center covers the legal responsibilities of DRBs and ZBAs. Watch it when it's convenient for you, then use our online Ask a Question form or email us at info@vlct.org if you have questions.

Buy Now for $0.00

About VLCT Journal

Find all issues of the VLCT Journal at vlct.org/journal.

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Please contact us at vlctnews@vlct.org with any comments or suggestions for upcoming content.

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